Wayback Burgers ~ national chain : Woodland Park, Colorado

Latest: Feb 2025

First visit: Mar 2024

HQ: Cheshire, CT; Founded in 1991 (Newark, DE)

Locations: Wayback is nationwide, but lightly populated. It's difficult to calculate how many total they have. They have 2 stores in Colorado, the other in Englewood / Denver. Looks like they have 5 in DFW (one opening soon) with north Fort Worth being the closest from our old home in Keller. 

If there's a restaurant Mrs. RJG has been craving, it's Wayback Burgers. She threatened to go to Woodland Park alone multiple times just to have that Cheesy burger I enjoyed last time. It never happened (as I predicted below), so I knew that Woodland Park needed to be our first "mountain incursion" of 2025, much later than usual (the wedding in Mexico is why). It's a very cold Tuesday around 11:30 when we arrived. Restaurant is empty though we saw two patrons on the way out with a to-go order. We each ordered (of course) the Cheesy along with one order of fries and two milkshakes. She got the Pistachio and I got the Chocolate Brownie. 

I think our respective orders totaled 10,000 calories each if I calculated right (see to your right). First the shakes came out, mine was wrong but they fixed it straight away. Oh yea, this is good stuff. Too good really and I need to stop having them. Then out came our cheeseburgers. Perfectly cooked double patties, hot to the touch, with toasted reverse buns. Delicious. You can really taste the beef. I just realized that last year I added lettuce and mustard. I should have done that again to balance the flavor a bit more. The homemade fries were also excellent and hot. Everything was as good as we remembered.

On the downside, Wayback Burgers is very expensive for a counter serve restaurant. $38 is a tab I would expect at a sit down full service establishment. Since we only go annually (though Mrs. RJG continues to insist we go more), it's a splurge meal. We've enjoyed the experience to date, so we'll definitely go back. Only one other to-go order showed up while we were there. But it was a slow Tuesday in the middle of winter, so we're not drawing too many conclusions from that. Maybe we should go in the middle of July to get a true assessment of how their business is going.

---original 3/9/24 review

Back on home turf, and Mrs. RJG and I decided a short drive into the mountains would be in order. Especially on this cold, crisp, beautiful clear blue sky day. Woodland Park is our closest true mountain town, and it makes for a nice getaway. I had heard that Wayback Burgers were going to open there, and it appears they did that five or six months ago. Apparently they used to be here in the Springs at some point, but I don't remember the name, and this is my first experience with the restaurant. The chain started as Jake's Hamburgers and I had wondered if it was the same brand that we knew in DFW. Nope, that's a different setup (Jake's Burgers and Beer). Perhaps that's why they changed their name ("rebranded" in corporate speak). There's no alcohol here, strictly a family oriented fast food joint. This is one of those chains that attempts to regain the "the way things used to be." As my dad always appended "...and probably never were."

Wayback Burgers sits in a strip center, with a very confusing parking lot situation. Once you get settled, walk in, and order at the counter. I went for the Cheesy with lettuce and mustard. And a Pistachio milkshake. Mrs. RJG got a single cheeseburger with cheese, lettuce, pickles, onions, and mustard. Plus fries and a drink.

I have to say this is one of the most flavorful hamburgers I've ever had. The meat is extremely tasty. If you get the Cheesy as is, it comes with two oversized beef patties and extra slices of cheese. The bread is served almost Patty Melt style with two flat topped and toasty buns. I received plenty of envious stares from Mrs. RJG, whose hamburger was more standard. She stated the same as me though, that the flavor of the burger was insanely good. She asked for light mustard and they squirted too much on there, but otherwise she was happy. The hand cut potato fries were excellent as well. The pistachio shake almost seemed more like a vanilla shake with chocolate whip cream. It wasn't very green nor pistachio-y in flavor. But I still enjoyed the heck out of it :-). Mrs. RJG even boldly declared she was coming to Woodland Park on her own during the mid week to have them for lunch again. She probably won't, but we for certain will be back next year, if not sooner.

3/9/24 (new entry); 2/18/25

Red's Sunset Grill ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

First visit: Feb 2025

It's a cold and dreary winter Saturday, and I didn't have any sales to go to. Mrs. RJG had some family business in Denver (we're two ships passing in the night apparently), so I was on my own for lunch. Why not pick a place nearby to the house that Mrs. RJG hasn't shown enthusiasm for. Well that would be Red's Sunset Grill that just opened a couple of months back. She doesn't often like to try places unless I've reconned them first. Happy to perform my spousal duty...

The establishment here prior was Beasts & Brews, a miserable place that I wrote a scathing review of (since removed). I can deal with a lot of issues, but I can't handle restaurants that deliberately try to rip you off. And they did that with their self pour beer tap system. I suggested they needed to change that business model pronto or face going out of business. And no truer words were ever written... Good riddance.

Red's Sunset Grill has completely remodeled the (very) large space into a sports bar but with an "elevated" menu (I'm getting good at these new terms, eh?). Essentially it's a gastropub. It looks almost identical to RJG favorite Back East Bar & Grill. And I'll be damned, it's the same owner. And I had no idea they also owned Abby's Pub along with two other distinct restaurant concepts. They are apparently Colorado Springs' version of the Lettuce Entertain You group of Chicago. Hey - that's awesome. More power to you. They have money and it shows. They also have uniformly friendly help and are clean as a whistle. In an era when most restaurants struggle to bring in patrons, all their restaurants seem to be packed. When I arrived there were only a few customers (I was early), but it started to fill up. I'm sure at nights they do great. And when there's an event at the nearby Ford Amphitheater, then good luck in getting a table.

Shall I talk about the food? That would be good of you Mr. RJG. Their beer list is somewhat perfunctory, so that's another major break from their predecessor. I stuck with water, since I have a full day of activities, including typing this review out 😊. I went with the Wicked Spicy Burger which they describe as thus: "Charred jalapeño, bacon, habanero cheddar, blackened chipotle aioli, brioche bun." Yep that's got my name on it. And substituted the fries for Mac-n-Cheese for $2. There it is to your right. I started with the Mac, and it was super hot temperature, creamy and absolutely delicious. Love that the mac is actually penne plus the parmesan cheese and panko crumb addition. For the burger the first thing I notice is the crispy bacon. Mrs. RJG would love that. I ordered it medium well, but I'd say it was more medium. Fine with me, but something to remember with the Mrs. The bread was just a tad mushy on the bottom, another Mrs. RJG no-no. None of this deters me and I was excited about the various spicy flavors. Excellent burger. The pickle was great too. I also have to say that I was completely full and struggled to finish it. This after a three mile run and nothing else to eat. I was starving upon arrival with my stomach growling an hour before. I can't remember the last time I felt that way about being stuffed.

Into the RJG Rotation Red's Sunset Grill goes. I'll see if I can get Mrs. RJG here as well. It's less than a five minute drive away.

2/15/25 (new entry)

Chago's Mexican Food ~ Centennial, Colorado

First visit: Feb 2025

I decided to go digging for inventory in Denver on this sunny and warm Friday morning, which later turned cloudy and rainy. After having great success at the first sale, I was hungry, considering I hadn't eaten anything and I had run three miles in the morning. I was in the mood for a Mexican breakfast likely a reaction to our recent visit to Hermosillo. The sale area I was in is where Mrs. RJG resided while we were dating in 1996 and early '97.  It was simply part of Aurora (or SE Denver) back then, but is now part of the Centennial carve out. I have no go-tos here, so let's find the first Mexican restaurant nearby that is open at 10:00 am. Chago's came up, reviews looked good, so let's try it.

I was expecting more of a restaurant like setting. As I arrived, it became clear this was a taqueria with counter service. No problem at all. They had tables and chairs strewn about, but it appears takeout is their primary business. As long as there's a place to sit I'm good, because I refuse to eat in the car.

I went about ordering three tacos: Carne Adovada, Grilled Pollo, and Carne Asada. They all come street style with onion, cilantro, and double wrapped in corn tortillas. For salsas they have a red and a green, and the friendly lady at the counter suggested they were both very spicy. I'm now getting excited.

When the Styrofoam container came out (to your right), I couldn't even handle the tacos they were so hot to the touch. That only makes me happier. After about three minutes of waiting for the cool down, I started on the adovada. OMG! Is this delicious or what? I can't even remember the last time I had such a great adovada. So much spice and extremely flavorful. I poured some of the creamy green, which looks like a mild but is anything but. Really nice flavor and kick. Then I tried some of the "red", that was really orange which indicated habanero most likely. Even more spicy and delicious. And both had the perfect texture to pour on tacos. Then I tried the chicken. Oh gosh, this is awesome too! Meaty, chewy, and filled with flavor. The Carne Asada, comparatively, was a bit less dynamic. Certainly was good, and maybe I should have tried it first, as I was struggling to get the steak flavor. Of course my mouth was on fire, so it's probably my fault. Should also mention the tacos were loaded and very filling. I met Abuela afterward, and told her it was muy rico. I presume she was the cook, or at least had a hand in the recipes. 

This goes right into the RJG rotation, and I'm sure I'll be in this part of town at least once a year. 

2/14/25 (new entry)

Chile Colorado ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

First visit: Feb 2025

Alrighty now that the wedding in Mexico is over, I hope to give more focus here to Colorado and beyond. I'm expecting 3 to 4 new restaurants (or updates) a week. I'll get the Instagram posts gathered when I get a chance. And it is this Thursday we begin our journey.

Downtown Colorado Springs now is in play, as there's a thrift shop I frequent that allows for free parking (I absolutely despise paying for parking). I've had Chile Colorado circled since they first opened, but didn't have the time to get over here. It sits right across from the courthouse and I'm now realizing I blew my chance when I served on the jury last year as noted on this blog. It sits somewhat isolated from where most of the other restaurants are. Almost like you're in a small town. That's a good thing.

Walk in and you'll be warmly greeted by the friendly waitstaff. They sat me at one of the comfortable booths by the window. The restaurant is colorful and brightly decorated. Very clean too. After reviewing the menu, with a few questions for my patient waitress, I made my order: Chile Colorado (as part of the combo, which is different than the individual menu item) and a chicken enchilada smothered in Christmas. I meant to order chips but forgot. I'll be sure to do that next time.

Out comes my very hot plate (see to your right) and I dug right into the chili. Oh yes! Great flavor, thick and meaty, and it packs a punch too. Considering the only thing on my palate up to that point in the day was my accompanying water. Then I quickly tried the enchilada. The chicken is better than usual, not the shredded rooster we often see. Tasty with cooked ingredients. The green chile packed even more heat than the chile. I couldn't really tell if I did get Christmas or just the green. If so, the color deviation is very light. But I did notice a different flavor. The tin foil is housing the hot grilled flour tortillas, and they too were great. Excellent across the board. Into the RJG Rotation Chile Colorado goes. 

While recapping my day with Mrs. RJG during our Happy Hour, she simply stated "take me there". So we'll be back soon I think :-)

2/13/25 (new entry)

Buqui Bichi Brewing ~ Hermosillo, Mexico

First visit: Feb 2025

Once again we had no plans to fill the day. At least for us guys. So after our meal at Santo's Grill, the three ladies who were with us had appointments to get their hair and makeup done. Mrs. RJG and Denver Sister were not too keen on unleashing Mr. RJG and the Ghana Ambassador out into the wilds on the wedding day. Denver Official Niece the Young had her boyfriend, but she could care less what he was up to. And Denver Official Nephew is 23 and free as a bird, so he was game for anything. There was talk of driving to San Carlos, a beautiful town some 90 minutes away. But the ladies were terrified we'd get caught up in traffic and miss the wedding. That sounded good to us guys! lol. After some deliberation, Oldest Sibling agreed to take us dudes around Hermosillo and we'd figure something out. OK, sounds like a plan.

It somehow became our mission to get a sombrero. Funny how these things become the target when it was never discussed before. Since Oldest Sibling knows the city pretty well, he took us to a place in hardcore Hermosillo. Clearly a very poor area, nonetheless we all felt completely safe. And I have to say that throughout our stay, I felt safer in Hermosillo than I do in Denver. We're freaking in the middle of cartel land, way off the tourist beaten path, and the streets at night felt safe. And in the day too. That's a sad commentary on our current situation here in the States. Only boyfriend bought a hat and then we ended up at the mall since Oldest Sibling had to visit the eyeglasses store. It's a very nice indoor mall, named the Galleria which is a clue. The stores are just like the stores back home. And so are the prices, so it's very expensive for the locals. After that we started to enter the cerveza drinking hour. We were under strict instructions not to get drunk. We wouldn't anyway, but we're not going to waste this opportunity either and drink tea.

We settled on Buqui Bichi, beers we were familiar with from the hotel bar. What a wonderful "space" as the young 'uns call it. We had a blast. All of us enjoying two to four beers each (exceptional). And we agreed we needed to eat something too, as the wedding reception would likely be way late. And not very good. All prophetic as it turns out. So I enjoyed the beautiful taco you see in front of you (carne asada and green chile). Best one of the trip. And we all got to bond with Oldest Sibling even though the poor fellow got stuck with us all day and doesn't speak much English. And none of us spoke much Spanish. It was a wonderful "moment in time". And I credit Buqui Bichi for creating that atmosphere for us. And Boyfriend paid for everything (note he gets a capital B now), raising his stock with Uncle RJG and Uncle Ghana Ambassador. Prices were great as was the norm in Hermosillo.

I wish I could share photos of our group, but must stay anonymous. We're all below that cropped photo, but it does give you a slight idea of the interior. The windows were open and there was a nice breeze coming through.

The beautiful Mrs. RJG looked like a knockout coming out of the makeup session. She usually does anyway, but this was next level. She's 51 but still looks like she's in her 30s. And in perfect condition. All of our niece's look up to her as the example of who they want to become. I'm serious about that.

And that ends our trip. As noted in the Guero entry, that's where we had our Sunday breakfast before going to the airport. Arrived in Denver at halftime of the Super Bowl. Listened to the 3rd quarter on the radio on our 75 minute drive home to the Springs. And caught the rest of the game in the house. So nice to be home again...

2/8/25 (new entry)

Santo's Grill ~ Hermosillo, Mexico

First visit: Feb 2025

Finally - the day of the wedding. Oldest Sibling, having been upstaged by 90 year old Official Mom the day before, insisted on taking us out again. This time it was just him and seven of the Colorado 9. The other two were involved in the wedding (one as the husband) and stayed in a different hotel.

Another excellent choice, Santo's Grill is clearly a cut above. Something like an independent First Watch. This would be a good time to mention that we found the service in Hermosillo - at every restaurant - impeccable. People were happy to have their jobs and were professionals at all times. High minimum wages have killed the restaurant industry in the States (California going so far as to pick on the industry itself). I think that's going to be POTUS' biggest challenge in tackling inflation. And he has Union support, making it that much more difficult to do what needs to be done. 

As openers we had coffee, pastries, and little sopas (or something similar) filled with cheese. The latter was absolutely delicious. As were the pastries - sweet, fluffy, and tasty. And the coffee was much stronger than what they served at the hotel restaurant.

I ordered the Tri-Color Enchiladas with chicken, which came with rojo (red), verde (green), and blanco (white) sauces. Along with beans, very similar to what I had at Guero (I forgot to photo the dish, only the outside building). And they were very similar, and excellent. The enchiladas are similar to some of the regional Mexican restaurants we get here in the States. The white is like a cheese / cream sauce, the verde was tangy, and the red slightly spicy. The chicken was good not exceptional. I found it very good, though for certain I would love to dive into their menu further. Their dinner selections were not available this early. Of the restaurants we went to, this felt the most comfortable to me. I would certainly come back if ever in Hermosillo again.

2/8/25 (new entry)

Palominos ~ Mexico regional chain : Hermosillo

First visit: Feb 2025

Other locations: Mexico City, Guadalajara, Mexicali, Tijuana

Friday was yet another "no plan" day and we had no events scheduled for the afternoon. After breakfast, while sitting near the hotel pool (in the shade) many of us bemoaned the fact that we should have come a day later. But we also knew the Colorado winter was unpredictable so leaving on Thursday was "insurance". And yea, it was friggin' hot while we were in Hermosillo. Temperatures hitting close to 90. In early February! It rarely gets that hot in the Springs at the height of the summer. I don't miss DFW one bit, and summer heat is the primary reason.

But Friday evening was definitely a planned event. It's the rehearsal dinner. Only one of the Colorado 9 were in the wedding party. This would be the Denver Official Niece the Elder who incidentally got married herself in the San Diego area three years ago (and documented in the RJG). But the bride and groom insisted on a larger event because so many of us traveled too far to be excluded. That was very nice of them. Groom is making bankola, and he's very generous. Our niece does well for herself too.

Palominos is a place your average Hermosillo citizen cannot afford to go. It would be a $$$$ restaurant here in the States. An upscale steakhouse essentially that has a large event room for a bunch of drunks like us. As with any dinner such as this, the food was pre-arranged and brought to us on platters to share. Drinks are of a high quality, and I enjoyed some craft beers as well. We were brought large pieces of crispy tortillas, which were to be broken up and dipped into various salsas, all uniformly excellent. Much of what was brought out didn't really appeal to me much (I enjoyed the pork, but not as popular with my crew), and I was starting to fear another bad diet night. Mrs. RJG just reminded me the cheese fondue was a highlight. At the end, though, came out sizzling platters of steak. OMG - was it great. Ghana Ambassador (he's something of a gourmand) and I both stated that it was some of the best steak we've had - in YEARS. It was hot temperature, tender, and flavorful. And maybe best of all, plentiful. I couldn't stop myself. I needed protein like that so badly. I felt rejuvenated.

I forgot to take a photo of the outside. And since there wasn't a "main entree", I didn't take any food pictures either. But I did have plenty to drink. You think that may have something to do with it? Naaaa.

And we closed the evening back at the Hotel Lucerna bar. This trip was working out OK after all...

2/7/25 (new entry)

Güeros ~ Hermosillo, Mexico

First visit: Feb 2025

Our stomachs were all a bit rocky after our bad diet day on Thursday. We needed a good breakfast to get on track. Enter Oldest Sibling, resident of Hermosillo. After 29 years of marriage / dating, I know almost all of Mrs. RJG's extended family. But after all these years, I had never met the oldest brother. He's 67. Mrs. RJG is the youngest (of nine) and she's 51. But on this Friday morning, that goal of meeting all the siblings has finally been met. Also met for the first time his wife and youngest daughter (who is 24). Yet another beautiful niece. Hope she's not getting married soon. Or find a nice place in the USA to do so...

He recommended Güeros, a whopping $1.50 Uber ride away. They identify with mariscos (seafood) but honestly I saw it as another Mexican coffee shop with more options for seafood. That didn't sound appealing to me, but that appealed to Mrs. RJG and her sister (call her Denver Sister for this trip). First I wanted a stomach settling drink. And I found the perfect elixir: Lemonade Mineral. Essentially lemonade mixed with sparkling water. I remember getting that at a restaurant in Denver (Garcia's) long ago and it was so delicious. I should make an effort to look for that again here in the States. Just what I needed. They brought out chips (in small sealed bags) with a few salsas, all of them excellent. Mild to spicy, with unique flavors.

For breakfast I settled on the Omelette Mixto. The mixto consists of ham and beef sausage. It was really quite good. And those beans you see were delicious as well. I laid off the salad, just something I tend to do when traveling in third world countries. That glass you see is the Lemonade Mineral. 

I think 10 of us were there for breakfast (the younger contingent of the Colorado 9 woke up later and didn't join us, so it was only Mrs. RJG, Denver Sister, Ghana Ambassador, and myself from our core group). Everyone really enjoyed it and Mrs. RJG went for a more traditional Mexican breakfast after all. And for an encore Mrs. RJG's Official Mom picked up the tab - first time ever since I've known her (close to the beginning of our courtship). She's 90 years old. She would have done that much more, but she didn't have any money. Finally she received much overdue pension from Mexico last year, and feels "rich". It was wonderful to experience.

So much so, that we went again for breakfast on our last day (Sunday) before heading to the airport. We had six of the Colorado 9 this time. I stayed boring and ordered the same thing. I think Mrs. RJG did feel like seafood on this visit, but she didn't really enjoy it much. Denver Sister said it wasn't as good as last time. But I'd go back if ever in Hermosillo again.

2/7/25 (new entry)

El Leñador ~ Hermosillo, Mexico

First visit: Feb 2025

And we have arrived. Thursday was a pretty brutal day for the eating routine. We had to be at the Denver airport too early for a normal breakfast and we had a short layover time in Phoenix. Though it turned out we had more time in PHX due to unknown delays - which the airline didn't even mention until much later. How about Make Flying Great Again? MFGA. Trump's approval ratings would go through the roof if he could pull that off...

In any case, we're talking snacks throughout the day. Chips, cookies, etc... Great diet. After we all finally got to the hotel, it was time for dinner. As I knew before going on this trip, no one took the lead on planning. I had no intention and since we had native speakers among us, I had hoped someone would have emerged. Wishful thinking. But mentally Mrs. RJG and I prepared for chaos, and that's exactly what we got - chaos. I was determined to "go with the flow" no matter what. I put my road warrior consulting hat on essentially. There were nine of us family members coming from Colorado (we all get along great and travel well together), and we know dozens more from Arizona and Sonora itself. There were promises of "great places to try" and yet that list never materialized. Eventually we did things the old fashioned way - grabbed a recommendation from the hotel. El Leñador (Lenador if searching in English) was that place.

We grabbed various Uber rides, plus some of the folks from Arizona drove down and the locals had their own set of wheels. Let me tell you something folks, in case you didn't know: Uber is dirt cheap in Mexico. At least it is in Hermosillo. Rare is the ride that costs more than $3. We would usually tip more than the cost of the drive.

I really liked the look of this place. It reminded me of my childhood traveling around with my dad in the 1970s. The entrance has that old motel feel, and this would have been the adjoining coffee shop. And essentially that's what this place is - a Mexican coffee shop complete with desserts and with an extended dinner and drinks menu. At any one time, there were probably 20 at the table, with the "Colorado 9" intact.

A lot of narrative for how we got here, but won't have much to say about the food. I ordered three tacos, a ribeye, another ribeye with green chile and bacon, and arrachera. I had meant to get the chicken breast and / or sirloin instead of the plain ribeye, but I was hungry / tired and prone to make mistakes. Unfortunately the ribeye was tough, chewy, and fatty. A good flavor though. I didn't really like the green chile much either - seemed a bit old. The arrachera was my favorite. I didn't know what it was, though Mrs. RJG and her sister tried to explain it to me. They used the word "dry". Looking it up just now, it means "skirt steak". It was delicious and it wasn't really dry. I think the photo indicates dullness, and that's pretty accurate. Though it was at least very filling. The salsas weren't noteworthy either.

The beer selection was boring, full of Mexican macros. Our heavier alcohol drinkers weren't impressed by the tequila. So overall it was a decent start to the trip, but not a great one. Fortunately this would be the weakest meal of the journey (other than the wedding reception, but that's typical of wedding catering unfortunately).

After this we went back to our hotel. The Colorado 9 all stayed at the Hotel Lucerna. It's like an old Hampton Inn with a nice lobby, restaurant (that Mrs. RJG and I didn't eat at, but others did), and a bar area. It rates higher than the nearby Marriott outlet and Hotel Ibis. If somehow we have to come back to Hermosillo, we'd stay here again. Oh, and the bar was great. Finally got to try some Mexican craft beers.

2/6/25

Bent Barley Brewing ~ Centennial, Colorado

First visit: Feb 2025

As noted in the latest Mama Louise update (Feb 2025), I stated that Mrs. RJG and I only had one glass of house chianti each. And that was because I wanted to try a new brewery (to us) before we closed off the evening. I figured I'd choose one randomly between Mama Louise and the airport hotel we were staying at. What I didn't know is there is a brewery only two doors down! What? Well that made the decision easy...

Walk in, and the bar is right in front. Nice strip center setting with plenty of seating and nicely decorated. A very comfortable place. The lighting was too bright though (as my first photo indicates). A little more mood lighting would have been preferable. Not a big deal. I enjoyed two beers and Mrs. RJG had only one (she had to fit in the fancy form fitting dress before the wedding event you know...). My two are documented in the Bier Reise. One more excellent brewery from the Denver area.

2/5/25 (new entry)

Mama Louise ~ Centennial, Colorado

Latest visit: Feb 2025

First visit: sometime in 1998 (when they first opened)

And we begin the first RJG journey of 2025, and our first trip for retirement! It was planned before I retired, as one of our Official Niece's is getting married (yet another one...). However for a variety of reasons they needed to have the wedding in Mexico, and since Mrs. RJG's family roots (and the groom's family roots) are in Sonora, then its capital city Hermosillo is where the wedding was to be held. They both live near Prescott, Arizona, so it wasn't convenient for them either! Not an easy place to get to, and we needed to take an early morning flight out of Denver to make a connection in Phoenix, the one and only flight to Hermosillo per day from the USA. A perfect excuse to spend one night in Denver before heading out! And if I'm getting an open night in Denver with Mrs. RJG, then Mama Louise rises high in the charts as a dinner option. As noted below, we have a long history with the restaurant. And we were able to catch up with the owner, as he always remembers us from the early days when we dined here often (at their original location off of Arapahoe). And yes, he confirmed that 1998 was the beginning per my memory. He's likely to retire himself in the next couple of years. Will someone take over? I hope so, but the restaurant business is tough right now, so hard to say if conditions will improve by then for someone to be tempted.

We displayed absolutely no imagination with our order, going straight for the chicken parm. Still comes with a soup and salad. I supplement mine with the Pasta Louise sauce (see fresh photo to the right), and Mrs. RJG goes with the normal marinara. All of this is described below. And it's as delicious as the first day we went here some 27 years ago. I don't think I'll add it to the RJG Rotation as it's not likely we'll be here every year together for dinner (and that's the only time they're open now). 

On this visit we only had one glass of house chianti wine each, as I had other plans for the rest of the evening. To be continued...

---8/28/22 update

So I received an email from one of the non-business hotel chains I frequent. They informed me that I would forfeit my points unless I did something on the account. Some of you may remember our visit to Prescott Valley, Arizona a year ago February to tend to Mrs. RJG's Official Mom. We stayed the week at this chain that I don't use for business - because it was a much better deal. A fine hotel too. It was too much investment to let the points go, so I suggested to Mrs. RJG that we should make a date of it, and eat, drink, and spend the night in Denver at one of their hotels to maintain status. No family allowed!  So that day happened this weekend. It has been over three years since we last visited Mama Louise. Pre-pandemic. It could have been 24 years since we last went - and absolutely nothing has changed. Thank goodness. In an era when the restaurant industry seems to be in a tailspin, it's comforting to know that Mama Louise still exists in a romantic past. We both ordered the chicken parm, our favorite dish from here. Mine with Pasta Louise sauce, hers with their house red. It still comes with a simple house salad and minestrone soup. Absolutely delicious - still the best Italian restaurant in Colorado. And with Pietro's closing in Dallas, maybe in the country. Obviously we haven't been everywhere, but this is the competition for us. We also ordered a nice bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. One difference we noted is it seems we got more chicken than in the past, and less pasta. You would think it would be the other way around! Not complaining at all - though more pasta would have been nice. I can eat those noodles without any seasonings and still love it.

The overall bill was expensive as was expected, but they were never cheap. Also they now add a surcharge if you use a credit card. Not happy about that. Cash only may make sense for $20 and under, but not for $100+ meals. Oh well - we don't go enough to warrant attention to the criticism (we didn't say a word of course). But Kent still remembered us - all these years later! Love this place.

---original 7/11/13 review

Continuing with our favorite Denver area restaurants, here is our go-to Italian place. We first started going to Mama Louise not long after they opened in the Tech Center (Arapahoe and Dayton) around 1998 or so. Prior to this there was a burrito place - I believe it was called Jalapeno's that we had eaten at a couple of times. After about a year of infrequently visiting, Mrs. RJG and I became regulars. Rarely would a week go by where we wouldn't venture up from Parker (The Pinery really) for a dinner. Usually on Friday night. Even on snow nights, we would go. Not long after we relocated back to DFW, owner Kent moved his establishment east to the Piney Creek area of Aurora (later known as Centennial). I can remember going to the original DTC location as recent as 2004 on a visit, so this must have happened shortly thereafter. The new location is a wonderfully decorated restaurant. Kent has been there since day one, and he's always pleasant and glad to see you. For years, his Mom would be by his side ensuring all was running smoothly. Apparently she had knee surgery not long ago, and is now traveling the world. So you won't see her anymore! :-) The family originally had a restaurant in Highland as far back as 1978 (I can't remember the name - but I don't think it was Mama Louise) and closed down. Kent is the son of the founder and restarted the tradition in 1998, as stated above.

I can only use the term "best" or "favorite" in relation to the places I've frequented. But what makes it so special for the RJG? Because they have the best chicken parm I've ever had. Anywhere. In the world. I like my parm crispy, and that's what you get at Mama Louise, along with an incredible seasoning mixture unlike anything I've ever had. Make sure you ask for Louise Sauce with your pasta. It's a spicy concoction made up of Italian sausage, ground beef, and tomato sauce. It's extremely flavorful and comes with a nice kick. Each meal starts with a minestrone soup, which I quite like, though it's not a traditional recipe (it's more like a noodle / bean soup with celery). This is followed by a cold iceberg lettuce salad, that is pleasantly simple with an excellent homemade Italian dressing. And they have fine desserts as well. And a decent wine list. This is also Mrs. RJG's favorite, and in a rare case of solidarity when it comes to food selection, she also loves the chicken parm. Excellent all around.

1998; 1999; 2000; 2001; 12/27/02; 7/14/04; 7/9/10; 4/17/12; 7/11/13 (new entry); 5/14/14; 7/31/19; 8/28/22; 2/5/25

Lupe Tortilla ~ Texas Chain : Allen

Locations: DFW (4); Houston / College Station / Beaumont (19); Austin (5); San Antonio (3). For our NE Tarrant readers, it appears Alliance would be the closest.

HQ: Houston (founded: 1983)

Alrighty - Mr. Music is on the scoreboard for 2025! Looks like he's been visiting a chain that owns tex-mex.com. Let's see how his experiences went.

---

I went out to McKinney to meet my brother, my sister-in-law and their son's family for some disc golf. After a great, long round in the woods we were all famished! My nephew and his wife, seemingly in unison said "have you ever been to Lupe Tortilla?" "We gotta go!". They explained that their flour and corn tortillas were freshly made there and they had fantastic fajitas and lots of other Tex-Mex dishes. They had me at fresh made corn tortillas! You don't get those everywhere! I figured this must be some cool mom/pop place; my favorite! I followed them to the restaurant, which was on Central Expressway in Allen. It is in the middle of a big line of restaurants and is a big, modern building. definitely not a mom/pop hole-in-the-wall, but most likely a chain, which it turns out it is. It was nicely decorated and bustling inside! We ordered drinks and they brought chips and salsa. The salsa had a nice flavor, but not much heat to me. But I love heat! The chips were fresh, not too oily and good. Our sever asked if we'd been here before. Most of us said no and a few minutes later, a man (who said he was a chef there) brought out a platter of small (silver dollar pancake sized) tortillas each with a chunk of beef fajita on them. He explained that this was a complimentary service for 1st time visitors to show off their wonderful beef fajitas.

 
They were phenomenal! The beef was so tender and marinated to the hilt with a beautiful marinade they call lime pepper marinade. I wanted more of that! We browsed the menu, which is extensive and has many delicious looking choices. I recommend looking at the menu just to see all the interesting looking dishes. Quail, crab stuffed avocado, spicy shrimp and rice stew and lots more. The fajitas section alone was huge and offers pork, barbacoa, filet mignon, lobster, spicy chipotle ribs and more! You can buy any item by the half pound or pound. They have combo platters too. We decided on a combo platter for the table, the Grandioso. It has a mix of beef and chicken fajitas and bacon wrapped pepper shrimp. We actually got 2 since there were 6 hungry adults! The platter had lots of grilled onion and whole grilled jalapeno. The food came with all the fixings: guacamole, sour cream, grated cheese and pico de gallo. Plus we got a mix of corn and flour tortillas. Rice and beans too, which are served family style and unlimited. Everything was really good, although I thought the chicken was a bit dry. Seeing how moist the beef fajitas were, I wonder if the dry chicken was a fluke. The highlights for me were the fresh made tortillas and beef fajitas. The only issue with the corn tortillas is that they get hard once they cool, so you gotta eat them fast. This place is a bit of an upscale Mexican restaurant and the prices reflect that; they seem a little higher than other places albeit the portions are huge. 

UPDATE: Shortly after, I had the opportunity to go again. This time to the Addison location. Lady music and I met our friends, Concert Buddy and his wife, T-bird Betty. We got the complimentary beef fajita sample, which everyone loved. As a result, I got beef fajitas. Lady Music got shrimp and poblano enchiladas, which she loved. Our friends were really watching their calories and got The Original Lupe Chicken and a taco salad. The both liked their dish. They were pretty huge portions! I do want to explore more items, but will have a tough time not getting the beef fajitas!

- Mr. Music review

The RJG is now on Instagram

...only a few years too late...

You can save time on the narrative below and go here: https://www.instagram.com/regularjoesguide

There was a time when the RJG was ahead of the curve, especially when one considers that we were the single most popular restaurant blog in Dallas-Fort Worth according to Urbanspoon. Yea, Urbanspoon. Remember them? They were a blog friendly site that helped promote local restaurants via those blogs. We ended up designing this blog around that site, which took me some years to unwind. In 2015, an Indian firm called Zomato bought the site and subsequently destroyed it because they didn't take the time to understand why it was popular. They took away crowd sourcing, and everyone eventually moved to Google Reviews and Yelp. Both platforms are decidedly anti-blog. We've added reviews to Google and TripAdvisor, but it hasn't lead to much activity here. Why do I prefer the blog platform over the others? Because I can control the content and keep posts relevant. I love history and these other platforms are all "about the now". You write a review, and someone might scan over it, and that's it. Lost forever after that. We have a Facebook account too, with similar poor results.

Back to Urbanspoon. Apparently there was a lot of dirty business going on in some cities with pay to play blogs who had achieved similar status to ours in certain cities. But that never happened in DFW. All of us played fair and by the rules. The RJG ended up in first place based on pure attrition - we just had more entries, but we weren't the best writers. And we still aren't great writers, but that was never the point. It was about exposure of the restaurant itself. With that in mind, our Instagram posts will only feature independent and small chains. And ones we like and recommend. No need to accentuate negative experiences. Also no need to photo In-N-Out Burger or Del Taco. Yes, we love those places too, but we can keep our running tally here in the blog. That hopefully gets a few more viewers. We have a few loyal readers, but there was a time when each post drew four figures. Now it's a fraction of that. Mainly because we haven't built up much of a local following. Perhaps this will get us back on the map.

The thing about Instagram is the platform is designed solely for mobile phones and photographs. The latter is something we've traditionally been very poor at executing. It's a matter of discipline, but as the RJG is getting more focus now that I have some free time, I will make that effort. Rude Dante and Mr. Music are welcome to join in on the fun.

We've had success with Instagram with my music hobby. So we'll see how we do with restaurants.

So yea - Instagram

B & B Cafe ~ Castle Rock, Colorado

Latest visit: Jan 2025

First visit: Sometime in 1999

We are back at the B & B for the first time in two years, as the RJG had some record business to attend to in Denver. And why not stock up on a hearty breakfast before a full day of battling estate sale goers and thrift shoppers. 

It's a frigid Friday morning, sunny, and 20 degrees. Managed to park up front for the first time in my entire history of going here. No big crowds and long walks through downtown Castle Rock. Took at seat at the bar / counter and proceeded to order what I had in the initial review: Wrap It Up with bacon, eggs, potatoes, and smothered with pork green chili (you can get vegetarian if so desired). And a side of refried beans. Came out hot temperature, though the beans could have been a bit hotter (not a complaint, more of a suggestion). The beans are excellent by the way, a very unique flavor that is crave worthy. I also ordered coffee, as this time they did have flavored creamers, but you have to ask for them. You won't see them residing on the counter. As I was devouring my meal, the friendly waitress asked if I would like more chili. Heck yea! So she brought out a cup and I doused the remainder of my burrito. That was kind - and needed! Once finished, she also offered me a coffee for the road. I knew better, as I was already flying high (had a cup of strong brew earlier at home, and that's all I usually drink), plus bathroom breaks are not always convenient. It was a nice offer though.

Given my new freedom and likely more trips to Denver, B & B will now go into the RJG Rotation, something I was hesitant to do prior with non-Colorado Springs restaurants.

B & B Cafe will also usher in our new Instagram account. Let's see if we can get a social media platform to stick.

---6/22/23 notes

We were only home a couple of days from our trip to Santa Fe, when Mr. RJG needed to head up to Boulder for two days of meetings. Yippee yahoo ugh. The first meeting was only the afternoon, so we needed to fend for ourselves for breakfast or lunch. Most folks were flying in from around the country, but I had the luxury of driving up from the Springs. And what better way to start the journey than a breakfast at B & B Cafe in Castle Rock (almost exactly one year to the day of my last visit)? To be honest I was tired of Mexican breakfasts, and wanted good old fashioned American food. I sat at the bar (as noted below) and ordered a "Full Plate" with two fried eggs, a full ham steak, pancakes, and toast. And a hot chocolate. This is easily one of the best breakfasts in town. So delicious, and prepped me for the long day.

---original 6/26/22 review

Summary: Old West breakfast house. Look for the bullet holes while enjoying a smothered burrito.

When we lived in the Pinery area (1998-2003), one of our favorite "out of town" breakfast houses was B & B Cafe. We'd probably go two to three times a year, taking the journey west on Hwy 86. Back then they even had smoking, much to the chagrin of Mrs. RJG. I never cared since my dad was always blowing smoke everywhere he could, so I just got used to it growing up. Long ago. Been meaning to try B & B again since we moved back to the Springs four years ago, and that day finally happened. It was record shopping day in Denver, so a quick stop in Castle Rock often kicks off the journey. I was dining solo.

And that's a good thing, as the place was packed with a line out the door. I walked in casually and asked if they had seating for one at the counter / bar. Sure enough, one stool on the end was unoccupied. Perfect. Everything is as I remember it from 20 years ago (according to the restaurant, they've been open since 1930). Classic middle-of-small-town-America diner. There are two rooms, including the aforementioned bar. It no longer smells of cigarette, but otherwise I just transported myself back in time. Worth noting that the bar is made of marble and came from the former mining boomtown of Leadville. Same article goes on to talk about the bullet holes in the ceiling and walls. Yep, it's the Old West that's for sure. The perfect RJG place.

For this visit I ordered the Wrap It Up, which is their version of the classic smothered breakfast burrito. Comes with eggs, thick cut bacon (or you could get pork sausage if preferred), potatoes, and is smothered in a spicy pork green chili covered with yellow cheese. In a twist, it also comes with refried beans. The chili is superb, not that spicy, but with a wonderful tangy flavor. The bacon is better than average adding much needed saltiness to what can often be a bland stuffing. The beans were excellent. They're smooth, flavorful, and not lardy as we usually see. For a drink, I enquired if they had flavored creamers for the coffee. They did not, so I ordered a mocha instead. Out comes this dessert looking hot drink with whipped cream and drizzled chocolate. Good stuff. Friendly counter service as well. Great visit, I'll be back. Maybe with Mrs. RJG like old times.

1999; 2000; 2001; 2002; 6/26/22 (new entry); 6/22/23; 1/24/25

B & B Cafe; Castle Rock, Colorado. Been going since 1999. Updated Jan 2025. See more at the Regular Joe's Guide.

https://regularjoesguide.blogspot.com/2022/06/b-b-cafe-castle-rock-colorado.html

In-N-Out Burger ~ regional chain : Colorado Springs, Colorado

Latest visit: Jan 2025 (Interquest)

First visit: Nov 1997 (Pleasanton, CA)

HQ: Irvine, CA (founded: 1948 in Baldwin Park)

Locations: 12 in Colorado (+3) with 3 here (+1), 8 in Denver (+2) and 1 in Fort Collins. Texas has 43 (+1) with 3 in NE Tarrant, including our two former stores of Hurst and Grapevine. Otherwise California: 280 (+5); Arizona: 38 (+3); Nevada: 23; Utah: 13 (+1); Oregon: 4; Idaho: 2 (+1). New Mexico and Tennessee are still on their radar for expansion

Back at our favorite California based chain. On this Friday for lunch, Mrs. RJG joined me for the first time at our local Colorado Springs store. A slight deviation as we both opted for the Double Double meal deal with fries and a drink. Everything came out hot and fresh, and it was as good as always. Top notch friendly service. You know I really like that they wear uniforms. I don't think I've called that out before. My dad was in that business, and it was thriving in the 60s and 70s. It gives an air of cleanliness and class. In any case, Mrs. RJG and I agreed that next time she'll get one order of fries for us to split, and we'll go back to the milkshake. Heck yea! Will it be next year? Maybe, as I only visited once in 2024 and Mrs. RJG hasn't been since a year after they opened. That's just the way it is these days.

As noted below, we did plan and execute on arriving at open. Not crowded when we got there, nor after we left. It reminded me of the DFW In-N-Outs after a few years of insufferable lines. There are a multitude of reasons for this: 1) The novelty has worn off. 2) There are now three COS locations to help feed the demand (+ one in Castle Rock which isn't too far north). 3) and yes, even inflation hits here too. A "Meal Deal" at $10 bucks doesn't have the same ring to it as $5 bucks. Even at that, In-N-Out is way cheaper than the competition. As we drive by, the lines are still steady in the drive thru, sometimes packed around the corner. So it's still very popular, just not as much as prior.

---4/8/24 update

As I noted last year: "The only fast food place where you have to schedule it on your calendar or you'll miss the opportunity". And, as such, I planned to be there at open on this fine eclipse filled Monday. And that's exactly what I did. I decided to go old school and eat inside. Grabbed a stool along the edge and devoured my Double-Double with cheese and onions (no tomato), fries, and a chocolate shake. All is good as I remember, and probably always will be. I don't usually get fries, but I was hungry and they were hot and tasty. Still the cheapest grub in town, and the lines have gone back to being longer because of it. I hear they're building a 3rd Co Springs location, which should help some. Since In-N-Out are 50% the price of the competition, it's easy to understand why. BTW, I'm sure they wish they weren't based in California anymore. They're so invested in that state, they have no choice but to accept their anti-Capitalist government rules. I can imagine their lobbyist bill is quite expensive... I think they need to break up the state myself. Let the loonies in the Bay Area and Hollywood run free, and the rest can get on with their daily humdrum, but happy, lives.

---3/31/23 update

This wasn't the original plan. I was going to get an early annual review in for Slim Chickens. As I was driving there, I noticed In-N-Out had no line. I mean *zero*. That would be the first time in history I've seen that (anywhere! California, Texas, etc...). I quickly looked at my phone to see if their hours had changed (it was about 10:45) or something else had happened. Nope. By the time I actually got to the drive-thru, two vehicles were ahead of me. That's got to be a record of some sort (only two vehicles!). On a Friday no less! I actually had planned the following Monday to go here. The only fast food place where you have to schedule it on your calendar or you'll miss the opportunity. In any case, went with my usual Double Double and a vanilla shake. Drove home (again, it's very close to where we live), watched a TV show and enjoyed each bite. I tried to eat it slow but that's hard to do. Anyway - all is well and good at our local Colorado Springs outlet.

Now for some chain news: There are 2 locations here and 5 in the Denver area. I think I read they plan on opening another one here in the Springs. In our old stomping grounds, there are 2 in NE Tarrant, and 8 in the Fort Worth area overall.  Other states they operate in are California (269 - with a whopping 146 in the Los Angeles area - how's that even possible?); Texas (41); Arizona (34 with our Prescott location still there); Nevada (22); Utah (12); and Oregon (4). Overall they have 389 stores (+31 from last year). I had to type the state name in their Location Finder to get these totals if curious.

---2/13/22 update

And now - FINALLY - I was able to step into our local In-N-Out restaurant. They opened in November of 2020. I predicted the lines would subside by February, 2021. I was a year late in my prediction. This place was a madhouse for well over a year. It wasn't until they opened up the second location off of Powers that the lines finally dwindled. So on an innocuous Monday late morning, I ventured in. Ironic in that Monday's was my go-to day when I had a steady gig in Pleasanton in 1998 (see below). Ordered my usual of a double-double, fries, and a chocolate shake (instead of vanilla this time). As good as I remembered it. Which is also to state that this is not a burger to change your world. It's very good, and I won't say different, but it just isn't worth the freakage that goes with opening in a new area. Now that the novelty has worn off, I'll be able to go on a normal cadence. Even better is it's a stone's throw from where we reside, so I'll take advantage of the drive-thru going forward. As for the dining area, it is exactly like every other In-N-Out I've been to. Spacious and clean. Very white. I like the barstools around the perimeter. Perfect for solo dining.

As noted below, the chain is very guarded about expansion, and refuse to franchise. As such, they've created a cult following. Colorado is their newest state. Humorous that I mentioned In-N-Out crowding in on Texas' very own Whataburger. And guess who is coming very soon to Colorado?

---2/19/18 update (Grapevine, Texas)

As we stated in previous reviews, the beauty of In-N-Out is their limited menu. So burgers, fries, shakes, and sodas. That's about it. All at a very affordable price. Fresh ingredients define their hamburgers, the meat, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and buns always seem if they were bought right off the farm and served up steaming hot. Their patented dressing is a Thousand Island basically. The Double-Double is their signature burger. It's a double meat (thin patties so not overly filling), double cheese, and still the best value in town. Oh, and their fries are delicious as well. There's a reason In-N-out is extremely popular. High food quality + Low prices = Success. For liquids they have great tasting shakes, even if they are machine made. Naturally, fountain sodas and water available too.

The familiar red and yellow signage can be seen on the NE corner of 121 / 183 and Precinct Line Road. And if you go through the drive through, it's like being in a car wash, as you can see the workers cooking and assembling everyone's meal (not to mention the refreshing shade in the summer). In-N-Out has a reputation for paying their workers more and better benefits, and as such, they tend to get more squeaky clean employees than the usual fast food franchise.

---1/15/13 update (Hurst, Texas)

So after much hoopla, In-N-Out has finally arrived to NE Tarrant. I waited. I didn't cheat and go to one in Irving or Richardson. We've been featuring the restaurant long before Texas was even a gleam in their eye. We laughed at the false announcement on NBC 5 a few years ago. And on our Whataburger review, we predicted that folks from Texas were going to protect their goofy little brother and attack this "unwanted" California chain. They can take their fancy fruits' and nuts' asses outta here! And bring Del Taco with ya, you ingrates! And as sure as the sun comes up every morning, it came to pass. My goodness, how silly.  As if eating at different burger places is mutually exclusive and one cannot possibly enjoy all of the above. In-N-Out Burger knows exactly what they're doing. These folks can scream to high heavens and suggest they're not going to make it here and be out of business in mere weeks. No way guys. As someone who watched them succeed in none other than the Bay Area (a polar opposite culture to Los Angeles), I'm rather certain they'll do fine in a burger culture like DFW. In-N-Out is a Southern California type place, so for me to see lines around the building for years and years at various San Francisco area locations proves to me that folks like a good tasting burger at a great price. It's a simple pleasure. It doesn't have to be the best ever to be good. Why does everything in our culture now have to rule or suck? Where's the middle ground? We've become Bevis and Butthead in our opinions. Me? I'm just grateful they're here and I can go anytime I want. It sure beats having to wait until I travel out West!

---original 5/27/08 review (Prescott, Arizona)

In both the Editorial Chains thread and the Johnny B's blurb, I mentioned In-N-Out Burger (INOB) as a favorite place to go when traveling to the left coast.

For the Memorial Day weekend, Mrs. RJG and I visited some of her relatives in Arizona. Given that it was a family visit, the majority of our meals were centered around family cookouts, and we were treated royally at that! But we did get away for one afternoon, and settled on INOB for our lunch. Naturally it's always fun to try other places while traveling, but it wasn't in the cards for this trip. This particular visit was to their Prescott store. We also visited one in Anaheim, California about two months ago.

There's not much to add from what I've already stated in the Editorial Chains section. But I'll copy here for convenience: Regional chains are cool. They typically represent an area's culture via a unique food type, or a destination defining place. An example of the latter, and perhaps the best example of a large regional chain, is In-N-Out Burger (INOB). 

When Mr. RJG goes to California, Arizona, or Nevada on business, he makes a sincere attempt to eat at INOB at least once per visit. They are what I wish Wendy's, McDonalds, and Burger King would have become. I once worked for a company based in Pleasanton, California. Like many Bay Area suburbs, INOB was well entrenched there for many years. Yet, no matter what time I had arrived, there was a line around the building! This is an area defined by chef-driven, high-end restaurants. Where mom and pops struggle to survive, and most homes clear the million dollar mark. And yet INOB has a huge line - always. Taco Bell and Arby's do not, I assure you. Why? Because it's damn good. Only the freshest ingredients are served. The menu is perfect: You can get variations on a hamburger, soft drinks and milkshakes. That's it! The kids that work there at INOB are a blast through a time tunnel some 40 years ago. Always smiling, and fresh faced. Everybody who works there wants to work there - and there's competition for those jobs. Why? Because they pay more and will also contribute to their college education. Think you could pull that off at a public company? I don't think so! I once asked my brother-in-law, who is in the restaurant industry, why he didn't franchise a location in Denver? When they opened the first Krispy Kreme in Denver, they had to get the police out to direct traffic for nearly a month. A Krispy Kreme for crying out loud! Can you imagine an In-N-Out Burger? He'd be rich in a week. His answer came within two seconds of my question "They don't franchise". And he added that everyone wants to open an INOB, for all the reasons I just stated. It appears they are perfectly content to grow at a snail's pace, while providing an outstanding fast food experience. They are my heroes.

I had my usual Double-Double and a shake. Mrs. RJG had a cheeseburger and fries - and a shake (she's still mad at me for the idea!)

11/10/97; 7/14/98; 1/26/99; 2/23/00; 1/29/01; 3/13/02; 4/27/05; 5/27/08 (new entry); 4/5/10; 6/6/12; 1/15/13; 6/19/15; 2/19/18; 2/13/22; 3/31/23; 4/8/24; 1/17/25

Pleasanton, California; Las Vegas, Nevada;  Atascadero, California; Irvine, California; Thousand Oaks, California; Los Angeles, California; Rohnert Park, California; Prescott, Arizona, Hurst, Texas; Grapevine, Texas; Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Mountain Brewery ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

Latest visit: Jan 2025

First visit: Oct 2016

Founded: 2008

This is for the Interquest location. They have a second spot off of US-24 that we have not been to.

As noted on our RJG Rotation post: "They'll probably get a revisit anyway since they're so close." Not even 12 days into the year, and Colorado Mountain Brewery has received its first annual update - our 8th straight since moving back to the area (not counting 2020, a year that needs to be forgotten). We were hosting one of our Official Nephews, who came in from Denver just to visit. So that was a nice change of pace. He's 23 and just about to embark on his first major corporate job. Just as Uncle RJG retired the same week. Exciting times for everyone. We all each had one beer (and I snuck in a desert beer afterward) along with chips and salsa (excellent garlicky salsa). We were also all in the mood for a burger. Mrs. RJG and I did exactly what we did last year and had the Pikes Peak Burger sans tomato but with green chiles. Nephew had the Mt. Princeton which comes with bacon. Excellent across the board. We came for a late lunch, and the Broncos were being pummeled by the Bills, not unexpected. A good year for Denver, a team I rarely root for, but I like this version. Better than my old hometown team, the Cowboys. Ugh. In any case, people were leaving disappointed, but the restaurant still maintained a positive vibe. And the service was excellent. It's a splurge meal, but worth it. Stays out of the rotation, but I bet we find ourselves back here in 2026 for our 9th straight year.

---7/14/24 update

Mrs. RJG and I had a family emergency to attend to yesterday, and so our dinner was delayed until the evening. Once all was settled, we decided to dine at Colorado Mountain Brewery since we hadn't been this year. And it's close to our house as we were getting tired too. It's been ages since we went to dinner at 8:00, especially on a Saturday night. In the old days, you wouldn't be able to get into a place like this. But even today, we had a 20 minute wait. Primarily because, as noted below, this is really a tourist restaurant and there are many hotels within walking distance, or a short 5 minute drive. And it's the height of tourist season, and many folks are loading up their credit cards, and they'll figure out how to pay for it later.

We don't like to wait but our options were slim so we did. And then we had to wait another 10 minutes to get our beer. Ah, but did it taste good! I was desperate at that point lol. We tried their seasonal July beer of Honey Lavender Ale. For dinner we each had the Pikes Peak Burger substituting diced green chiles rather than the tomato - both cooked well done. With fries. It's the basics, but they do it very well. At a high price, nothing new there. Colorado Mountain Brewery remains a good option if you're in the far north part of the Springs.

---5/11/23 update

As luck would have it, the FNABQ's were back in town. See the La Casa Fiesta review for more about them and our relationship. Not the best timing as it was the next day after our long trip. I was afraid I'd fall asleep in the plate... nose down...

But fortunately I hung in there. On this visit I went with the BYOB (sigh - how I miss that one aspect of Texas dining). Of course this BYOB means "Build Your Own Burger". I ordered well done meat, green chiles, and bacon. With chips on the side. Mrs. RJG thought that sounded great - so make it two! Not sure what our guests had, but I was a bit out of it. Mrs. RJG loved the burger - best she's had in awhile. I thought it was great too. Had a couple of beers to wash it down with. We had a great time, and this pushes forward Colorado Mountain's timeline. What are we going to do around Christmas? lol

---12/26/22 update

In what is looking like the makings of an annual tradition, the RJG's went to Colorado Mountain Brewery sometime during the Christmas season to get in our annual review. Though Colorado Mountain is technically the closest brewery to our house, I don't consider it our "local brewery" (that would be Black Forest at the current time followed by Pikes Peak). As noted below, this is mostly for tourists new to Colorado, and their peculiar ways of eating and drinking. For these characteristics they are great! On this visit I wanted to try the pizza. They have limited ingredients, so I just went with a 7" pepperoni. Good sauce and cheese - so they get kudos for that (pepperoni is pepperoni - unimaginative). But the crust was lame and not crisped at all. Thank goodness Mrs. RJG didn't try it. So a mixed result. I also had a cup of the bison chili which was delicious. As good as the Ted's Montana version that I recently raved about. I should get a bowl next time. Mrs. RJG went with the Pikes Peak burger like last year (no green chiles this time). And once again they cooked it perfectly. She's saying it's her #2 favorite burger behind Brass Tap. So it's good to see some competition brewing in her mind - so to speak. See you next Christmas season, Colorado Mountain.

---12/23/21 update

Looks like we're able to sneak in at least one more annual review. It's been since March of 2019 that we last stepped foot into the Colorado Mountain Brewery. Nothing has really changed - same large space with beautiful views. The surrounding area, however, is growing like crazy. Mrs. RJG and I each had the Pikes Peak Burger and substituted tomatoes with green chiles, though the latter didn't really bring much heat or flavor. But the burger was delicious all the same, along with the fries dipped in a chipotle ranch dressing. And we each enjoyed one beer to celebrate the oncoming holidays.

---original 12/16/18 review

Colorado Mountain Brewery may be many folks very first experience with a brewpub, and it's a great choice if that's the case. Perfectly situated along I-25 right across from the Air Force Academy, Colorado Mountain Brewery offers excellent views along with great beers and an advanced pub menu. Yes, they have the usual burgers but also pastas and steaks, along with other inventive dishes. The RJG gives a thumbs up to both the pastas and hamburgers. The restaurant is large with a woodsy feel. A great place to take guests. Or if visiting as a tourist, you will definitely feel more comfortable - especially compared to some of the down and out breweries in the area (which the RJG loves too - perhaps even prefers). We first visited here as tourists ourselves, during one of our biannual trips to the area.

10/9/16; 12/16/18 (new entry); 3/2/19; 12/23/21; 12/26/22; 5/11/23; 7/13/24; 1/12/25

El Super Taco ~ Colorado chain : Colorado Springs

First visit: Jan 2025 (S. Academy @ Hancock)

Locations: Colorado Springs (2); Fountain; Pueblo; Pueblo West; Alamosa; Raton-NM (dba Alfonso's)

And the RJG notches the first new-to-us restaurant for 2025! I've been circling El Super Taco for many years, but just never got around to trying them. This particular location sits in the same parking lot as a thrift store I often frequent. So on this very cold but sunny Friday at lunch, I made my first visit, as I was already down this way. I believe this to be their debut restaurant and it looks to be an old Taco Bell that they repurposed to good use. 

Walk in and order at the counter (they have a popular drive through as well). I asked for a pollo asado taco, even though it wasn't on the menu. I passed on the sour cream, and substituted cheese. I also grabbed a ground beef taco sans tomato. Paid up with a credit card and they ask for the unearned tip, which they didn't get. No matter, as the ladies at the counter were very nice and professional. Then they proceeded to cook my meal to order.

A few minutes later out came my sizzling chicken taco and a wrapped ground beef taco. The pollo comes in a high grade double corn tortilla. The meat was hot and very flavorful. I tried three of their four salsas: Mild (red), Hot, and Extra Hot. They also have a mild green. The red mild is delicious, thick with ground chilis. Not spicy of course, but flavorful. Perfect texture. The hot was just slightly less textured but no less delicious. And it packed a nice punch. The extra hot, however, was too thin and it was hard to discern the flavor. The heat level was indeed the hottest, but it was my least favorite of the three.

After that, I dug into the ground beef taco. Nice crispy shell. I would have preferred a bit more spice in the meat, but it wasn't bland. The taste was more subtle. Next time I'll try for the carne asada (without pico and guac).

Overall a very pleasant first experience. We also have our first new entry from 2025 into the RJG rotation!

El Super Taco's expansion has been strictly to the south and southwest, and their market is geared towards the Hispanic population. Even though they do sport one locale in New Mexico (under a different name), I'll just leave it as a Colorado entity for now.

1/10/25 (new entry)

Leon Gessi Pizza ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

Latest visit: Jan 2025

First visit: Feb 1995

Founded: 1974

Leon Gessi is getting an early revisit for 2025. Just like last year's update, I was in the area near lunch time, and a couple of slices sounded good. Since the sandwich didn't work out last time, I decided to go back to their pizza. For this visit I had a slice of meatball and another sausage. The ingredients weren't anything special, and they still don't use enough sauce. As for the crust, I had the opposite experience of the past - this time it was too chewy (though fortunately not doughy), but it was hot temperature at least. Seems like the slices were a little smaller too? I don't want to say they've gone downhill, it doesn't feel that way at all. But they are a bit inconsistent. I'm leaving it in the RJG Rotation, and I'm sure I'll get in at least one more visit this year. On the plus side their soda drink machine works perfectly. On the downside, they ask for an unearned tip for taking your order at the counter.

---5/19/24 update

I happened to be in this part of the Springs on Thursday, and Leon Gessi offers an early lunch. It's about 10:30, time for an annual update. I've been once each of the last three years and one visit that goes back to my first tour here in the Springs. I was determined to try one of their baked subs and went forward with the meatball sub. The experience was like the below in terms of ordering, etc... Grabbed my table and waited. A few minutes later out comes the sub. Hmmm... Not quite as hot as I expected, though certainly hot enough for most I would suspect. I'm looking for bubbling mozzarella cheese, preferably charred. I wanted the bread to be more crispy. They cheated on the meatballs. I expected full homemade meatballs. What I got was meatball pizza toppings thrown inside of the bread. So no, that's not going to work. It wasn't bad of course, just not what I would want from a quality baked sub. It tasted exactly like it reads - a meatball pizza inside a sub. On the plus side they gave me a side of their sauce to douse it in. That did come out hot and it's very flavorful. I'll stick with pizza next time. Leon Gessi remains in the rotation.

---3/19/23 update

It's been exactly a full year since I last stopped by Leon Gessi, with the below review representing my last. Seems I'm in a pizza mood lately with Parry's and Walter's303 also getting some focus. As with the last visit, the slices were a bit stiff - seems a bit overdone in the oven. Though Mrs. RJG would like it this way! And because they may have been reheated one too many times, the sauce seems cooked out. On this visit I had one sausage and one meatball, and the toppings were generous. Maybe not the best pizza in town, but certainly worthy of an occasional visit. Seems if I order a full pizza, it might be better. Also eyeing their baked subs. For next time.

---original 3/19/22 review

Based on the dates above, you might think we've been long time regulars to Leon Gessi. But nope - this was only my second visit. The first was when my Old Man came into town during my first residence here in the Springs. I recall little about the experience. But I did recognize the building. It's a classic RJG styled old fashioned hole in the wall. Apparently they've been in business since 1974, and I would guess at this location. When you walk in, it looks like a Baltimore shotgun styled place. There's tables that line the window, and you order up at the counter. They give you a number and that's because there's ample more seating in the spacious back room through the hallway (again, recalling Baltimore) and there's also plenty of benches to enjoy outside. I ordered two slices - one plain cheese, the other with sliced Italian meatball. Both came out crispy and piping hot. The crust should probably have been a bit more pliable, and I never seem to get enough sauce, so it was a tad dry. I could see that changing visit to visit. Certainly a place worth adding to the annual repertoire, and probably more than that. We'll be back sooner than 27 years at the very least - we hope.

1/28/95; 3/19/22 (new entry); 3/19/23; 5/16/24; 1/3/25